#txeduchat Archive
An informal learning community for educators worldwide. Our passion for learning and connected learning experiences help us to improve our teaching practices. #txeduchat features guest moderators every week.
Sunday March 13, 2016
excited to join for a bit tonight! if you are around, we'd love to have you join
Wonderful to catch up in person at Josh, glad you could join in the chat w/ tonight!
Monica, Special Education teacher, Texas (Excited to support a fellow 's member, !)
Hi! Ro, ES Librarian, ready and invigorated to start up school after a week off for Spring Break.
Michelle, Houston, Competitive,Inquisitive
good evening, - Michael from Columbus, OH - middle school teacher my three words: "passionate" "energetic" "transmogrificationer"
Bradford Harris A Tinker, a big kid, loves to learn
Thank you. Super excited to be there. My first I’m this week, but making an exception :)
Welcome Michael, always appreciate you joining in & adding to our learning!
Please remember to use the
Q1: (questions)
A1: (answers)
format for questions and answers on so that others can follow along
Im Josh from SC. Three Words… hmm Innovative, persistent, & intelligent
Hmmm... Dedicated, Techy, and Amazing ;)
Welcome Ro, always appreciate hearing your views on our topic!
Passionate, loyal and innovative
1 hour to Come join the conversation!
Welcome Gerald, glad you could make it!
Deanne, Principal in Lewisville ISD, 1st time twitter chat
yay! Warning it's addictive!
Tiffany, Alabama educator, listening in on the chat tonight. My 3 words: Passionate about youth
Hello ! I'm Heidi, from WI & I teach 5th grade. My three words: Enthusiastic, Smiley, and optimistic.
Nice to see you again on !
Kharima an Instructional Technology Specialist who loves from Houston, TX
Three words with hypens: dedicated-2-spread-❤️-4-reading; passionate-bibliophile; kids-r-1st!
I love GIF’s…. Way overused in my colleagues group texts.. trying to contain myself tonight
Hey Michelle, was so great to finally meet in person at thnx for joining in tonight!
It is always great to have a first time tweeter join in the fun.
Don't forget to include the hashtag on your tweets during the chat. This helps others find the conversation.
Excited to learn from you again on !
Tina from TN, enthusiastic, passionate,
We are so happy you could host tonight Bradford, thanks again!
Dana Bickley, SATX, enthusiastic, friendly, possibilitarian :)
Hi all, Jessica, instructional coach from TX "passionate creative learner"
OK. Josh... the bar has been raised. Choose a GIF that describes you!
Hi, ! I'm Heather from TX- my 3 words are motivated, passionate, and collaborative!
Business teacher and twitter over-achiever
I almost spit out my chicken salad when I read this, Nathan! Say...how is your (is it cousin?) ?
Toshila, joining from Houston, TX.
Kimberly, from North TX coming in a little late.
I want to know who can get 47 words out of 140 characters!
Katie from N TX, 3 words: enthusiastic, strong, curious
Good evening ! Todd, elem principal in CA! Looking forward to a great chat!!
Julie is about to break ground on the new mansion
Outgoing, social butterfly, and caring
A1: Ss engagement is laughter, movement, & smiles all rolled into learning!
A1: when they buy what you're selling
Good evening ! Mary from Texas - I like to teach math. I'm usually a rule follower, but I'll stick with 5 words instead of 3.
urbie, from Abilene, Texas (one night only). my three words.. earthy, playful, mistaken
a1: student engagement is how much passion and enthusiasm my Ss are displaying - how much they enjoy learning in the classroom
A1: Students are actively learning and able to put in their own words on what they are learning and teach others.
That deserves a special round of applause, anyone jumping in on spring break!
A1: engagement is when Ss are working without redirection from the T. The T should be able to step away without any concerns
A1:Students taking control of their education, talking, researching, thinking critically.
From Bexley, Ohio an eissuA-Aussie, adventurer & researcher
Michael - Principal in Houston ISD
A1: if students care then it's engagement
A1: The level of commitment a student has to a topic or a lesson...the more engaged, the better!
A1: Student engagement is interest and attention to the content being taught. Often confused with compliance.
A1: Students being so involved with learning that they don’t have time for “other” things. Think… Kids learning w/o T direction
A1 Engagement means kids are actively involved - making meaning of their learning!
A1: Ss engagement means that they would still be working even if the Ts wasn't there...involved and passionate
A1 Ss personally connected, driving the learning, happens naturally if we let it. Ts just need to provide the opp.
A1 getting them hooked is key luv your answer https://t.co/SezPbdszuV
A1: Ss engagement is laughter, movement, & smiles all rolled into learning!
A1: My def of engagement aligns with Phil Schlechty's: Ss are motivated, persistent, and committed.
A1 Ss who come to work ready & WILLING. Are comfortable w/asking "why?", know theyre valued&responsible for self&others learning.
Love that way of putting it Jessica, they don't need us to drive if they are engaged!
A1: Ss conversing, discussing, sharing dialogue with teacher and peers
A1: Connected learning where Ss are absorbed in learning & discussion takes place that leads to higher order thinking
Exactly - T direction isn’t needed when S are engaged!
so accurate - if I left the room Ss will still be on task - that's engagement!
Jenny 4th grade from Ohio. A bit late, but happy to join tonight!
Jenny 4th grade from Ohio. A bit late, but happy to join tonight!
A1: Ss are curious, attentive, interested, and optimistic about their learning. Ss feed off of each others enthusiasm
Yes! And it takes a great teacher who sets up a respectful, risk-taking encouraged type of environment! https://t.co/L23PmohrlP
A1 Ss who come to work ready & WILLING. Are comfortable w/asking "why?", know theyre valued&responsible for self&others learning.
A1) Ritual vs Authentic: Engagement involves thinking, reading, talking & sharing.
A1: Ss are collaborating, learning is relevant and meaningful, Ss can describe their learning, and Ss are having fun!
That's what I'm thinking...engagement is not binary - it's on a continuum. https://t.co/kRxnwPdMDr
A1: The level of commitment a student has to a topic or a lesson...the more engaged, the better!
yes grabbing their interest!!!
A1: Student engagement is when passion, and energy are felt in the lesson. Also S's conversations are driving the learning
A1: Ss are engaged when you create an experience for them...not a lesson!
A1: giving students choices: activities, products, assessments, all with student input
A1: Actively learning concepts. This could include asking questions, researching, discussing.
A1b: Student engagement let's you know how well you did your job...
Yes, student-focused lessons, not teacher-focused lesson
A1. To quote my teacher partner: "I've engaged them when they talk about what they learned while getting in the car to go home!"
Love that statement Heidi, experiences over lessons!
Unfortuatnly, SC had defined engagement as “Eyes on text” and as a 1st year T… I fell for it.
taught me well! How are you my friend? Hope you are well.
If you are following but not sharing ideas... we hope you jump in tonight & join the conversation! https://t.co/tiznJlt2JA
Hi I am Melinda from Reading, Pennsylvania. Student engagement is when they listen and are excited.
interesting can you expand on that
Or When Students are creating their own experiences…. we can facilitate what they want to learn.
A1 Ss lead and Ts are on the sidelines.
That is what we want, parents asking "what did you do today" & Ss jumping to tell them before they ask!
A1 Ss are involved in a discussion or collaborating with their peers. Excited about learning and full of energy.
A1. That breaks down to: intellectually challenging, , personal meaning & application to real life.
Q1 Students can be emotionally, cognitively and behavioral engaged. Emotional engagement is connection with content and school.
GOOD EVENING! haven't seen you in forever!
Absoloutely! Are you a fan of by any chance? My Ss are addicted to !
A2 Questions, curiosity, learning isn’t a chore, but instead they have been hooked and are part of or leading the learning.
Alex, innovative instructional design and implementation in Austin, Tx Just getting to
I was the guest moderator last week. hahaha!
A2: Students are so engaged in the lesson that they screamed "No..." when the bell rang. Happened to me a couple of times.
A2 Classrooms have a different vibe. Kids don't even notice the Princ in the room b/c they're so engrossed in what's happening.
Exactly! How often do we have compliant Ss- motivated by other factors?!
a2: students are asking questions, challenging each other's thinking, while I'm in the back observing and facilitating
That is painful Josh wow! What a data point, hopefully they have changed that?
A2: when my students are engaged, you can see them thinking, hear them asking questions.
Q2: Working together and talking not arguing!
I haven't made this chat in a few weeks - it's definitely not you, it's me :)
A2: It looks like Collaboration, Creativity, Communication, & Critical Thinking. Sprinkle in smiles, laughter, & movement..BAM!
A2 They are active and loud, not quiet or sitting still.
A2: I love the smooth buzz of collaboration, hearing key words once in a while and phones are face down
A2 Asking questions, collaborating, connecting, having fun and involved
A2 there is dialogue b/w ss there are focused on the Ts the work and the conversations are classroom driven.
A2:They are up moving, conversing, sharing ideas, providing feedback, writing and genuinely interested.
I'll take arguing as educational discourse - we have 'respectful' language which Ss have to use to disagree
A2. As T, began with "need to knows" for learning obj. Engaged Ss upfront about what/why they needed to learn to answer DQ.
When they are truly engaged, my room looks like a heavenly chaos of learning.
A2: Looks (& sounds) like creative chaos at times. Ss communicating w/each other, moving, collaborating, learning
They're adventurous, exploring content, creating their own understanding, requiring others to participate, & pushing the teacher.
A2: You know Ss are engaged when you talk to them. Hard to measure engagement vs. compliance just by looking.
A2: S's are having academic conversations, asking deeper questions, and asking for more...
A2: Looks like controlled chaos, lots of talking/discussion, smiles, possibly frustration, success and failure
Ss and teachers are collaborating to solve a problem. By using their minds, their words and their hands, learners find solutions
A2: if Ss r engaged it's usually hard to find the teacher. 😊
a2: from the outside it looks like chaos, but when you look you can find the order and artistry
A2: Kids are smiling, worksheets are in the trashcan, Learning is occurring… for everyone. The T is facilitating.
Agreed, esp in my exp. ": A1: Ss are engaged when you create an experience for them...not a lesson! "
A2: There's no one specific way. Some students might be involved in a conversation while others might be working by themselves.
controlled chaos I luv it
Or maybe phones are up but Ss still collaborating in the same way just through shared classrooms/docs
A2: Engagement looks likes Ss collaborating, actively participating in uncovering the learning and the T is the facilitator.
A2Lots of energy, buzz of sharing/defending/rethinking ideas. Moving 2share or ask/offer help. Im hard 2 find, in trenches w/Ss.
Love this --->>> https://t.co/BmNE62jgkA
a2: from the outside it looks like chaos, but when you look you can find the order and artistry
A2. So that when they got to that learning and were perhaps bored, he could tie it into what they "all" agreed to know upfront :)
Sounds like "life". Weird that we're just coming around to making school more like the rest of the world.
A2: Students referred and able to connect to previous learning. They are excited to come and learn. Have a little fun with them!
yes, we have a large lab area as well as tables (I had to push for these and finally got them from a K clssrm)
A2- organized chaos! Thinking, moving, learning. For my kids they are usually all working on something different!
A2: Courageous conversations about a problem with a solution-mindset in an environment that encourages and supports risk taking
have to have brain breaks
a2: are moving with a purpose
It has been changed! We had that for 2-3 years. It was miserable… took the fun out of the classroom
Life's not all sunshine & roses. Mistaken acknowledges from time to time my best fizzles. Shoulda gone w/human?
A2: For me it varies by activity. Quiet when Ss work on projects, active note-taking. Chatter 4 brainstorming, critiquing.
A2 you make visitors that come to your class or school curious about what type of learning is going on in the room.
I was trying to describe just the visual, but you have to include the noise! It is not a quiet classroom.
I am an elementary librarian and I know they are engaged when it gets loud but they are still focused.
Love the addition of risk Alex! We need to help Ss try & fail if they are to truly learn
A2 This can vary by class or students. Ss are working together to create a product Ex. or Foldable using a rubric.
A2 Does it have to be loud and chaotic? Can't the learners be individually engaged with the content? Stirring the pot here.
A2 Ss going - I have to go look that up, or try that out. Not being distracted by Facebook, or even twitter :)
A2: Ss are agreeing or disagreeing on a topic. Questions are being asked; principal is stopping by wondering what's going on.
yes not just conversations but academic ones using the vocabulary
A2 Ss are motivated to discuss and have been given vocabulary for a really interesting question or challenge.
A2 over the years Ive had to accept that LOUD comes with engagement, we're excited, we're bouncing off ea others' ideas.
Glad to hear it evolved sir!
.A3: I will sometimes act as their partner and let the other Ss move on.
Agree--not all Ss are extroverts. Intro- and Ambiverts may show engagement in different ways/modes.
A3: Find their interests… make them own it. If the S is not engaged… they don’t understand their role. Make them OWN it!
A1: engaged students are curious about what they're learning and excited to see what happens next https://t.co/YDpldUGz2u
a3: build the relationship, learn what she loves, make it part of the lesson. Could be as simple as assigning him a task
A2 S engagement looks different by the second:loud, focused, devices, books, conversation, research, questioning, learning & fun!
A3: Connect to schema. Have a student who loves horses, so found a way to connect that to concept/objective
A1 Engaged learners have a problem letting go of the experience.
A3 It is easier when you have a good working relationship w/ Ss.
A2 (con't) Don't get me wrong - I value collaboration, communication amongst learners, too.
Agree! knowing that they are sharing/performing their own work live/online/however helps motivate. https://t.co/6azOIhjuFS
A2 This can vary by class or students. Ss are working together to create a product Ex. or Foldable using a rubric.
A3: build a relationship and find an interest. Use that to design a plan for them.
A3: Carefully,sometimes we jump in to rescue the disengaged w/o allowing them 2 try 2 reengage themselves. If not disruptive-wait
needs to be appropriate not dictated by the teacher. If planned and designed appropriately the noise will follow
a2: dig deeper to find their interest!
Hi !!! This is my first ? Is this one you have checked out before?
Or letting them have a voice in their role. S have great ideas… listen to them!
A3: You have to find out what their interests are- what they value and find meaningful. Give them a voice in the classroom.
Totally agree! It could be either way for different kids at the same time!
It can def. be individual focused - you don't have to be an extrovert to be engaged
I wish for a one size fits all solution. Every case is different. Sometimes the root of the prob is not in the room
A3: By asking questions and making the lesson relevant. Sometimes by showing Ss they CAN do it. It depends on the class.
A3: involve them in conversations. Ask what they think. Include their ideas in a task.
To engage the disengaged I will approach them and try to work 1:1 for a little. Then try to pair them up.
A3:Find out that students interest and personalizing the lesson.
Very true I can't best help get Ss engaged if I don't know them & if they don't know I care about their success
A3: I use their name in a sentence. Maybe an example or something about them personally. That's why it pays to know them
A3 it takes more than one try 2 figure out what isn't clicking &why. I often offer to partner with DS, younger Ss like that attn.
Even when they are individually engaged, Ss usually comment or ask questions.
Jumping in late, counselor from Plano
A2 Depends. Where is the engagement coming from? Sometimes there's mess. Other times quiet. Engagement fits the work.
A3: engage them through questioning, help lead a portion of the lesson, assign them as a team leader, or assign them a buddy
a3: dig deeper to find their interest.
A3 this is why ice breakers/getting to know ss is so important at the beginning of the year. it will drive your room & engagement
A3: engage Ss by finding what they are unterested in and making it relevant to their world.
A3. First, listen/determine WHY S is not engaged. Could be something completely not academic. ACEs, family issues.
A3: the easy answer is make it relevant but we know it's harder than that. So my answer is increase relationship capacity
Giving Ss autonomy in the classroom is so empowering!!
A3: options! Bring in tech, art, current events, whatever grabs them!
Ambivert - definitely adding that one to my vocab! Googled it to be sure it was describing what I thought it was.
A1: Ss participating in academic conversation; THEY ask the questions; THEY answer and defend; and THEY ask more questions
Even in the face of setbacks or failure there is a drive to move forward and to reach toward accomplishment.
A3 Methinks you don't. They do. It's like with whales needing to come up for air.
So important to give students a voice! https://t.co/eDkwy2ajGV
A3: Find their interests… make them own it. If the S is not engaged… they don’t understand their role. Make them OWN it!
The common answer here is RELATIONSHIP! Connect with your Students! It makes a huge difference
A3 Finding their “hot button” via the unique thing that jazzes each S and connect that hot button their learning.
A3: Know your learners well enough, or ask questins, to find/use their passions to get them interested.
A3: Give the disengaged learner choices. Perhaps they just need time to come around.
Absolutely! diff tasks! Ss Produce a wkly show. when it's editing time they often work individ. https://t.co/YYWaMaxDyQ
A2 Does it have to be loud and chaotic? Can't the learners be individually engaged with the content? Stirring the pot here.
A3 Get to know them find out what kind of music they like. Play it!Get them to come up w a song to help them learn new concepts.
yes, I am very lucky to have earned the trust of admin!
A3: lessons must be relevant! The TEK is the TEK, but the delivery is on the educator. Be crazy, creative and compassionate
BAM!!!! THIS IS IT!!! Josh nailed it!
https://t.co/FCslOdRiPw
The common answer here is RELATIONSHIP! Connect with your Students! It makes a huge difference
Relationships are so important. Ss have to know you care!
A1: student engagement is when they believe you have something worth sharing and that they can contribute
Yes, just read about it the other day. I'm ambi :) Sometimes extroverted, but crowds exhaust me & I need quiet time.
A3: also - anonymous back channels to get their input helps sometimes.
A3 listen in and ask a question to give the disengaged an opportunity to chime in. Many times it's just stage fright.
Getting started w/expectations early for the win!
A3 Helping involves basics: connection & conversation about what's important to the S & focus on how to help light that fire!
Side note: my is going SLOWWWW compared to my phone. Anyone else having this problem?
A3: connect the lesson to their interest & offer different choice w/diff types of assignments
What tools do you use do get that feedback Misty? How has it worked for you?
TY, David I learned that from book "Teach Like a Pirate" by It's a gamechanger & must read.
TY, David I learned that from book "Teach Like a Pirate" by It's a gamechanger & must read.
A3- tough 1. But I think differentiation & choice help those difficult to engage.
Clear expectations, shared all the time, makes the job much easier!
Have patience, get off a pedestal, talk with every student, be passionate for the content & celebrate each learning A-HA moment.
Q2: they have personal connections and ask questions
Lesson must be relevant to the Ss. We have to use what they find meaningful to their lives.
We need 2 communicate importance of to Ss, Ts & parents
a4: hooks, music, collaborative work, tech games like or - make Ss break down the door to get to your class
It is important to have a good relationship with the Ss and sense what activities might be a struggle for them.
A4 Knowing your Ss is A#1. A#2 is selecting the best tool/no tool for the learning opportunity ahead. Needs to be the right fit.
A3 having kids of my own has really help me to connect with ss. No kids watch music videos, the kids channels to try 2 connect
A4:Technology, gallery walks, students creating raps, songs, poems on content.
A3:Give other Ss time for a take away while you engage the disengaged.Involve them as a helper without putting them on the spot
You sound like someone who's read Teach Like a Pirate! Am I right???
. socrative, kahoot, today's meet, google classroom
A4: NewsELA and Channel One is great for connecting current events to concepts learned in class
A4 Talking about the big pic at the opening of new learning. What will we accomplish/why learn it/options for showing u got it.
A4 Get them to talk about themselves, their interests, their values, what they want. Have genuine concern for these over time.
Q3: Building relationships and asking questions
I try to eliminate any dead time. I try to have a seco dary task/goal.
A4: I danced, acted like a fool, provided Ss choices, brought in the arts, differentiated levels, etc. Whatever it takes
A4: Boundaries and procedures allow students to relax and participate. show me a class highly engaged you will see a great design
A4 Find their intrinsic motivators: sense of belonging, content, autonomy or to be challenged & make a difference.
A4: Recently, a data spreadsheet based on was very engrossing. is also dearly loved by Ss.
A4: Student voice and student choice are two tool for engagement that work well in my classroom.
read it, live it, love it twitter chat it! - we just had a celebration of learning discovery night!
Do you give Ss choice in tools they use Dana? How has that worked for you?
A4: Varies from Ss to Ss, but usually includes hands-on, relevant, visual, kinesthetic, and based on Ss choice
it's interesting to see how the un-engaged S will become engaged sometimes w/ a different T or style. https://t.co/EMPqQp6DS9
The common answer here is RELATIONSHIP! Connect with your Students! It makes a huge difference
You did it AGAIN, Josh! "Whatever it takes!" Love it!
https://t.co/5ej5ss0U82
A4: I danced, acted like a fool, provided Ss choices, brought in the arts, differentiated levels, etc. Whatever it takes
Me too. I put up hand for "stop talking" and say "give me a sec". Imagine how hard it is as a S to communicate that!
Never stop looking for these tools. New ones come out every day. It’s okay to change it up people https://t.co/vVwLS9fUcA
a4: hooks, music, collaborative work, tech games like or - make Ss break down the door to get to your class
A4: To engage Ss, best strategy is to design work that motivates them as learners. Do they need choice? make a product? Show it?
Quizziz and Kahoot are high on the engagement meter.
Q4: videos, stories, roll play, puppets
Q4: I work in a school with a large ESL population so I tend to use a lot of visuals and hands on activities.
A4 With a time honored technique in our DNA.. Story. Everyone hears something a little different.
Thanks, that answer rolled right into Q4!
A4: open-ended projects, activity choice sheets, task cards, online discussions;Ss know my expectations for work, but have option
A4 Begin with lesson design including an authentic task. Then throw in some learner choice. (or vice versa)
A4 remember it doesn't all have to be tech to engage and this is coming from a tinker LOL
A4: voice/choice for assignments, for ideas/brainstorming, for assessment
A4 agree wholeheartedly! Ss trust Ts who take time to understand them. There is no ONE best tool to meet Ss needs!
A4: The brain ❤️s novelty so I try and mix it up! All things google, , move note,
A4: This! Music, tech, groups and mixing it up!! https://t.co/wAfCHobuF0
a4: hooks, music, collaborative work, tech games like or - make Ss break down the door to get to your class
He came to our school in February and it was epic! You've got to read his book!
A4: Won't come as a surprise to those of you who know me. I use questioning to engage students. https://t.co/cYWxeIL2jn
A4: Explain the purpose, give the Ss choice in activities, collaboration and communication and incorporate tech or hands-on act.
The two things I have missed since leaving the classroom this year. 1. Kids 2. Channel One News!
Awesomesauce! Tell me about this "Celebration of Learning Discovery Night!" That sounds awesome!
A3: Building RELATIONSHIP w/Ss is key. Know them; tap into their interests and motivation. Help them discover why "it" matters.
A4 KAHOOT! The crowd goes WILD! Show me u know using GarageBand! BOOM! U get to quiz me on ur topic, u can hear them go muahaha.
i definitely will read his book. It's great to see such enthusiasm for teaching
If they are questioning & curious, they are certainly learning!
LOL. Really like the Week in Rap.
I've always said teAchers are GREAT actors! 👏🏼😄 https://t.co/tV4oihpXuB
A4: I danced, acted like a fool, provided Ss choices, brought in the arts, differentiated levels, etc. Whatever it takes
A3: Keep the lines of communication open and maintain honest interest. You never know why they are disinterested.
I know the feeling I try to co teach and integrate with Ts when I can
A4. Incorporate fun themes+ encourage . Ex: make geography map for zombie storyline. Someone used cats instead. :)
A3 I imagine discovering what they're passionate about would be key
Im going to blog it (haven't had a moment this weekend) Ss lead Ps on a gameboard 'how to write a research paper
A4: I'm intervention, so we're always doing something new.My Ss like SOS strategies.We do four corners, cubing, etc.
A4 Be creative - different tools for diff lessons to engage ALL Ss - technology is key but so is the discussion & debate
To select tools/strategies you first need to know your audience! Show big picture, then chunk experiences building the puzzle.
A4 (b): as a science T FOLDABLES are the coolest! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
it was great chatting. Hope to chat again in the future
A4 Some of the tools I use are MUSIC I make sure Ss are in their comfor zone
A4 "You will get to show/represent/sing/dance/mime what we learn 2 ur T." You could can the excitement its so thick in the air.
Great idea! I do the same with my co-teachers/my content area department.
You need to check out the entire Flocabulary curriculum. It changed my LIFE!
For the record my real answer is always what said. I type my own just for fun so I don't get bored
"exaggerate that students input or ask ?? you know that student can answer...draw them in!" https://t.co/J62xtAg0qH
I wouldn’t go with great…. I just have great aspirations haha
The key is building relationships with Ss and allowing choice
A5: sharing and building on each other's ideas through discussion
Sounds interesting. Could you please share your blog w/ me after you write it? Nice to "meet" you BTW!
I’m at the dis level w/ coaches who are s-by-s with Ts. Trying to incorporate choice as much as poss. https://t.co/sSK7YFvuYL
Do you give Ss choice in tools they use Dana? How has that worked for you?
A5: If learners are talking w/ each other & collaborating effectively they will naturally help each other engage in my opinion
It is always so nice to see everyone on Sunday nights! Thanks community for the great ideas. https://t.co/h82yTIuOJ4
A5: Ss engage ea. other through questioning, collaboration, discussion...love our multi-age rooms for these reasons!
agreed and how are you doing
A1: I have been following engagement vs. empowerment closely of late. I can see an argument for reaching for the latter.
Feel free to ENGAGE with any of these questions but include the answer number
A1, A2, A3.....
https://t.co/vMcVacS0yn
Great tools for ALL learners! https://t.co/01agDD2QiH
Q4: I work in a school with a large ESL population so I tend to use a lot of visuals and hands on activities.
I am in love. District is doing a trial run on it.
A5: Through Number Talks, turn and talks using accountable talk stems
Choice of tools can be a challenge at some of our schools…but we def work with what is available!
I just posted a pic on Friday of my previous students drawing on the tables to add fractions… it all works.
A5: peer work, group work, discussion boards, in class discussions/debates
Q5: Ss can help engage others if you give them the chance to share ideas about topics from their generation.
A5 Excitement is contagious. An established expectation of collaboration,suggesting certain tasks for Ss who excel in certain MI.
A5: They can challenge each others' ideas, learn cooperatively
A4 (c): screencast urself! Sometimes Ss need 2 take notes or complete a foldable. Don't stand at front of class! If 1:1 use video
Hi , it's Leslie, just south of the border in Mty, MX. Your time changed, but mine didn't. So lost! https://t.co/aSRIwQZL04
I'm here! Popping in and out, but I'm here!
I had a great session on this with w/o flocabulary and youtube
A5: Using NewsELA to connect to topics
A5 my school is a huge proponent of Sheltered Instruction? Sentence stems really work!
A5 They can providing feedback to eachother " If it was your project what would you add to make it better."
A5 S-S engagement is possible if we setup the right environment to welcome that interaction.
A5: Ss are engaged when they find meaning and value in the work their doing. Ss may want opportunities to share in learning.
A2: Student engagement cannot be seen in the classroom. You have to talk with kids about the meaning and value of the work.
A5- I rarely address the whole class. Students are the leaders & take the reigns. I just come along for the ride :)
"..student engagement is their recall and ability to answer the higher level ??s..and on task!"" https://t.co/MIM6GlmRPz
A5: jobs in science labs r key 4 this! Is Ss r responsible 4 learning they draw in others.
A5 S engagement comes in both low & high tech, but always feels & looks like respect. Postive culture is tantamount for Ss buy in
A5: collaboration and communication is key but also give student jobs so everyone is involved.
A5 During teacher PD activities, how do you engage other Ts? Commiserating? Making something better? Fart jokes?
Force large & small group participation, everyone helps each other. Even 1:1 environments can be lonely without conversations. A5
A5: I think it has to be with intentionality. Seldom do you see great engagement and the T just shrug and say if just happened
A5 Today's Meet attracts evenmy shyiest Ss and when they share some deep thoughts that have us mouth dropping without staring.
Usually if you can get one student who is engaged to comment on something they all start to chime in.
A5: Tweeting to the class hashtags. Sharing videos (https://t.co/Lk3FTafsNN ) and blogs. Group teaching. You name it!
A5 By sharing their expertise - collaborative problem solving
A5 student collaboration on projects, games where students question each other. The key really is safe reflective classrooms
A5 They can provide feedback to eachother " If it was your project what would you add to make it better."
Don’t require 1:1 to use video… have review stations set up with your Vids from the week. 1 device works https://t.co/bV7Y6xCuyW
A4 (c): screencast urself! Sometimes Ss need 2 take notes or complete a foldable. Don't stand at front of class! If 1:1 use video
A5: Peer evaluation/instruction, collaborative groups, gamification & badge systems. Fostering a community of learners.
None of the above? Oh, Urbie! hahaha
A4: Purposeful One-on-One Convos. Student Choice in reading. Writing for REAL purposes.
We are moving towards self-paced, differentiated teacher PD. It helps to prevent that and really meets the Ts needs
. 😂 but this inspired me! Think I will offer a partner activity for PD this month!
A6: It improves engagement but also creates a balance between paper and pencil and technology
play then? Or problems with more than one answer?
Integrating technology connects to their electronic world. But the integration must be purposeful.
A6: It allows for the different learning styles; in addition, it gives immediate feedback and allows the teachers to be guides.
A4 Van De Graaff generators are always fun. Lightning in the classroom is so cool :)
A6 Tech is part of kids lives outside school. They use it to connect with interests,people & ideas. Use it the same way in school
A6. empowers both T & S. Provides resources faster, but is NOT 100% magic solution. Bad pedagogy+tech=bad pedagogy. :)
A2: Student engagement looks and feels like: high energy, a "buzz" in the room, and higher level academic conversations.
A6: I have been impressed w the way my Ss engage on our online discussion boards. So much more interaction
A5 Ss working together for a common goal where all have shared interest in the final product they will show others.
Oh yes, much different than the "sit still & listen" approach when I was a learner in school!
A6: Tech provides opportunity for collaboration, product creation, novelty&variety. If Ss value these things- use it!
A6: Helps to differentiate learning. Teaching students on 4 different grade levels is hard… with Tech it becomes much easier.
A5: Partner a talker with a non talker. Create an environment so Ss are involved as a whole & not individually.Allow Ss to teach
A6) It gives multiple opportunities for Ss to share their knowledge with others. Creates a digital learning platform.
A6 using technology integrates visuals with collaboration and negotiation of ideas.
Q6 Ss live in a world filled with technology Ts need to harness this powerful tool
Show something really cool - then ask about the hows and whys.
A6 the goal is for one to walk into the room and see ss talking & collaborating & writing and then you see tech. It's blended
A6: Ss will be on their devices, because devices are interesting...blending learning allows device use with intention.
Brett, Course Designer with
. yes have worked in 1 device 1:4 and 1:1 classrooms. Can make it work. Will say much easier with 1:1.
Do they have to attend or is it T choice?
Technology is very attractive to Ss to hook them.
A6. More opportunity 4 introverted Ss to have a voice w/blogs, twitter, padlet, polls, etc. to participate. Or for formative.
A6: Great question! or allows students to interact/engage/connect any time, place, path, pace.
A6 Ss get the opportunity to use devices or tools that they are familar with and learn new things at the same time.
A6 blended learning respects Ss learning differences, period! Slow 2 process, introverts, Ss who leave school & can't be present!
"Sit down before I knock you down?" Yes, I know it well! lol
A6- tech provides choice, relevance. I don't think tech alone is all that engaging. It's what we are doing with it that engages.
A5: Ss can engage other Ss all day long if environment allows for it & we're interested in setting expectations for it 2 succeed
So student engagement ~ teacher engagement?
Agreed 1:1 is easier. But I get tired of the excuses :) I have worked in No devices, 1:25, 12:25, and 1:1. DO IT!
A6: Technology used mindfully/effectively can certainly help Ss better connnect/collab/create & can help them become more engaged
A6 Well designed content, available before class, is a great learning experience. It should invite exploration and tinkering.
A6. Faster analytics to be able to course correct S work faster. Better communication w/Ps via . Lots of good stuff.
A6 Id like to use the broader definintion of tec. Any obj that answers Ss needs of sensory play. Wht boards&expos get em excited!
Message me your email and I can send some info tomorrow. Using our LMS with our T’s for PD
See a gr8 discussion. Maybe compliant student just wants to get it over with. Engaged student says bring it on. Will check back.
A6: differentiation & connected learning to their world
There wasn't a lot of student voice or choice in my childhood unfortunately!
A1: Sts can be actively involved and simply compliant. Engagement goes to a student's motives.
Engagement improves if there's a plan, a hook, commitment, adaptability & a purpose. Otherwise the question is will it blend? A6
Don’t forget after class as well. Our S should be able to review the materials before and after… just like online.
Well stated, ! https://t.co/wyw2epHIid
A6 Well designed content, available before class, is a great learning experience. It should invite exploration and tinkering.
Blending is good to get them interested by using the technology as a kinestetic tool and then interjecting I between with info.
a6: I love technology, we just have to make sure it is@enhanving learning instead of masking mediocre teaching.
A6: as a T & PD developer tech helps me better keep up w/who needs what kind of help. Much better learning "trail" I can follow.
A7: It is not the # of resources but the quality of how they are used
A7- Stations, BYOD, group work
Preach!!! https://t.co/GRC6Um97gD
Agreed 1:1 is easier. But I get tired of the excuses :) I have worked in No devices, 1:25, 12:25, and 1:1. DO IT!
A7 Use what you have & be inventive. Ask the kids how they might solve the resource problem. Advocate for what you need
Just trying to change the world man….
Culture trumps strategy and resources. Know your students and connect with them!
A6 Tech is key to so many of our Ss b/c that's the world they live in. If we limit their use, we could limit their engagement.
A7: Sing & dance for Ss? It's not an experience I've had, but I would probably be putting the A in STEAM. https://t.co/R9uP5iI5CW
yes it is how you use what you got to reach the ss
A7: If engagement is about the value of the work presented to sts, resources should not be a primary consideration.
True, tech bolted onto poorly planned/executed teaching & learning can be even more of a disaster
Dunno. I had an odd experience today, drove 300 miles n didn't go anywhere. I'll share later.
A6: The old reading & writing is the new surfing & typing. Technology is part of our world & we just have to use it correctly.
Oh I talked plenty, I was the Columbo of students, "Just one more question." I loved learning!
A6 It provides opp to break physical (& time) walls of the classroom. Most of my ah-ha moments come when I'm NOT at work, too!
A6: Tech is a great resource if used purposefully and effectively.It's part of Ss everyday life and can provide immed. feedback.
A7: love tech but engagement occurs w/pedagogy that encourages Ss centered learning&Ss choice/voice w/assignments, offer variety
A7 and free tools like Skype or GHO for guests can be great. and fun if well used.
A7) get creative. I created a station like environment where Ss choose what they wanted to do and when.
I'm 1:1 iPad in the library. My 3rd graders are 1:1 in Cl. It's hard to corral Ss this way
yep throwing a video with no planning is not the answer
A7: By not complaining. Take what you have and MAKE IT WORK! With the right heart… You will do it. Look at
1:1 gets stale in my opinion. Any device, app, material becomes routine &unexciting eventually.
17s
JudyArzt's avatar
JudyArzt
Ss engagement can come in many forms, & many don't require tech
A7 All you really need is a challenge - or a good question. That costs $0.
A7 choice, opportunity, and multiple modes of getting at the same content help disengaged see the possibilities.
A7 Tap into local parents, businesses and volunteers for classroom support, activities and even content..
I am sorry to hear it. I know that PD can be a tough sell at times. So many reasons that are beyond your control.
A7: Tell stories from your life. The students will know that you are human and that you have a life outside of school.
A7: teachers teach! In a single room school or the most advanced tech school, teachers teach.
Luckily in GCCISD we are blessed w/resources. But the resources are only as good as the delivery of the content. Make connections
A7: You don't need vast resources to engage Ss. You need to know them- their needs, motives, values about learning the content.
agreed, phones can be good tools. Sometimes I like both C's-collaboration AND conversation.
Yes, but be careful as it's easy to get overwhelmed.
A6 I think technology mostly gets in the way. It's a distraction if students aren't into what they're doing/learning.
A7 Also, don't be boring 😳
Last year I was 2:1… with iPads and Chrombooks. AMAZING. Each device has a place. Procedures help
A7) Also I found unused items from other classroom to utilize in my classroom for my Ss. Was not 1:1 but still blended.
Yes - absolutely, I was assuming it would remain available during and after...
yes as Ts its a shame we have to do this but I thank donors choose for supporting Ts
They do enjoy personal stories as long as Maslow's needs are covered. Definite option!
A7 Imagination can take you anywhere! Ts can use for free witn a Ts smartphone without any Ss devices. Many options!
Also enable students to engage with one another
Have done same, BYOD & scrounge for devices in every way possible!
YES! Let the kids help to solve the inequality in education. They have IDEAS! They will OWN IT. https://t.co/vqiFAV9EJX
A7 Use what you have & be inventive. Ask the kids how they might solve the resource problem. Advocate for what you need
A7 with any free/ low cost alternative you can find. Ask another for help. Ask your PLN.
A7: Ss engagement is about connections and making learning interesting. So get on the floor or move! https://t.co/xP39sAxxDW
Q7: Limited resources that's me! It makes you very creative. I have recycled products, brought & bought my own.
A6: Providing a blended learning environment and using tech gives Ss voice, choice and ownership of their learning.
Indeed. I can't do what I do on a diff device. But my Ss only want to "play" Part me - part tech
A7 Have Ss work in groups, take turns, assign jobs. As a T I used my ipad under the elmo bc we didnt have wifi or mirroring capa
A7 Constraints breed innovation. I like it. It helps teachers n learners focus on basics.
A7: Be creative and know your students and what engages them. Reaching out to the community it a great way to get resources.
A8: Collaboration is the key. A lot of teachers collaborate with me and we bounce ideas off each other.
That's true re but smartphone aren't allowed in many schools & not all students have one: digital inequities
A7. For lower-income Ss, do more groupwork & discussions not requiring tech or home materials to practice & apply knowledge.
A7: We mistakenly associate tech with engagement. Engagement can and does occur without tech. Tech serves as accelerant.
We can remove the limits if we are willing to beg and borrow and create meaningful opportunities.
With limited resources the MacGyver DNA is activated, teachers are innovative, open to new approaches, try, try again we do. A6
A8 remember its about getting to know your ss in the beginning
A8: I work in earnest on their intrinsic motivation vs. me entertaining them, regardless of level. It's a work in progress.
A7 pt2 build it from parts if you can. We got a 30 PC lab from donated and scrounged parts.
A8: I have 30 kids in all 4 classes and I can't say that I engage all of them at one time.
A8 Again it's about passion. Combined with broad, meaningful rich tasks, it's a mix for dynamic learning
A7 less is more. When we only had 1 iPad, we learned much about sharing, being efficient, we valued our screen time & device more.
Yep. A little earlier today described listening to what moves us then moving. Reflect some, move again
Remember the pencil and notepad were early forms of mobile tech.
A7: Engagement shouldn't be tied to $...that allows people to make excuses...less $ means more creativity.searching for resources
A7: Limited resources provides Ts a great opportunity to be innovative and a divergent thinker.
A8: differentiate how Ss show learning. Collaborative work.
yes sometimes it can be hard
A8: no such thing as average. design for the edges!
A8) Build upon their interests as much as possible. You can alter the depth of the content to meet the needs of the Ss.
A7: Utilize your Ss parents and the community. Ask Ss to be the creators of their learning, and you, as the T, oversee it.
A8 That takes time, practice, trial and error.
A8: options. Ss work may never look the same as any one else's. That is okay. Lots of formative
With my new obsession with I need smartphones. Asking community for old iPhones & Androids to wipe & Use
Q8: Find out from students what works for them on an individual basis: use surveys & other means
while I loved - I get easily frustrated at how low-resourced schools like mine are forgotten.
A8 start small and support with many opportunities to grow then add more as skill and confidence grow.
Q8: I feel designing engagement for all is very challenging. I try to teach topics that they can relate to or that is relevant.
A8 If the teacher does all the heavy lifting designing an all inclusive engaging activity what's left for students to do?
Don’t discredit them though… Mom usually has a smartphone. Accommodate but don’t under serve/prepare https://t.co/APi9o5OEMH
A7. For lower-income Ss, do more groupwork & discussions not requiring tech or home materials to practice & apply knowledge.
A8 provide students with multiple methods to demonstrate what they have learned and already know
First don’t treat students like a TV dinner, work with colleagues to personalize the environment as a team, we’re not islands. A7
A8: Having Ss talk to one another, but also knowing your students and their various needs helps to design engagement for all.
Many schools are still w/out tech resources, have blocked ed sites,or limited broadband
A8. Use rubrics that are skill based. Have projects for highly capable to dig deeper into concept. Have Ss teach each other.
If you take the time to get to know them individually it make all the difference. Let them know they matter to you!
Limited resources for me allowed me to look elsewhere and I found many tools (tech-based and not).
I feel the same way. Sometimes I bring what I have at home to engage SS
A8: Know your TEKS, preassess, allow Ss input as to how knowledge should be shown, relationships are key!
Life gives you lemons, make lemonade. :)
A8 Look to early childhood friends as a + example! No tech but these young learners highly engaged through interaction & movement
A8 Maybe part of the answer is who's in the team? Or the tools/talent/interests they bring to the party?
Don’t - work hard for those kids. I only worked Title 1, low income areas. You are making a difference
Everyone loves a cat on the internet! :)
Differentiation is key..... Knowing how to differentiate, is imperative
A8: Moving to a mindset of personalized learning allows for the differentiation and engagement of ALL Ss.
A8: You can never eng all Ss all the time- unrealistic. Survey the class or classes & find out what they need (as a whole).
A8: Target the average need of the lesson. That way, it's not too boring for your highs and not too confusing for your lows
A8 Its like asking how to differentiate an ELA lesson w/ 6 different years of reading levels. Creativity, thoughtfulness & plan!
Yes but we also need to consider developmental stages: what works for preschoolers, not same for HS
A8:although tech is a great resource, the soft skill of selling your love & passion for your content 2 your Ss can close all gaps
A8 Never underestimate the power of a small number of quality learning experiences. Think: slower pace with intentionality.
Same as me. I sometimes use my own devices.
Agree, not avoid. Multiple modes to get there, not reliant. In case mom is working during assignment!
Great approach! Bet companies would love the tax right off of donating devices!
So true... and there's so much fun - which is how it should be really 😊
A8 planning for a diversity of response levels is essential. Not easy but when u see every1 working @ their best ability. 😢
Rome wasn't built in a day...keep at it. Ur doing great bcuz u care! Evident in ur posts! All Ts constantly learning!
Q8: I feel that I am never able to address all levels but I still try.
A9: Bring humor. I noticed that students are engaged when they see their own teacher having fun while still learning.
A9 keep them focused on lessons by providing interesting lessons and the opportunity for Ss to teach.
A9: this hard bc testing is needed for my students so people are forced to change, but this time of yr seems to bring low engage
Lots of learning happens outside the classroom
A9 If the focus is on thinking & learning, the tests take care of themselves (at least in Australia) 😊
A8 (con't) and by slower pace, I mean 'not racing through 50 practice problems' but diving deep into a few quality tasks.
A9: differentiation, discussion, voice/choice w/ assignments, pbl, make learning fun
Thanks. Sometimes it helps to hear that.
A8- Creating relevant tasks rich w/choice gets all on board. This might not be anEVERYDAY pic of classroom but should be a goal!
A9: Move along w/out focusing on state testing season if you want to keep students engaged
A9: I have relocated to Mexico to avoid state testing season. j/k I'm Canadian, and I have no idea what they do up there.
Full lessons, time on task, engaging lesson segments, interactive strategies including appropriate use of technology....
A9: Never changed a bit leading into testing, honored to have worked on campuses where it wasn't seen as THE priority
A9 the attitude should be "we own this & we're fine tuning", burning them out with test prep is detrimental to everyone's health.
A9:By front loading.Our instruction all year should be aligned 2 learning objectives. If so, there's no need 4 a "test prep" dash
Ss use paper QR codes the T prints out. Only the T needs a smart phone for as a formative digital resource
A9: at my school we r not allowed to mention test to Ss & rarely parents. This helps! So proud I work there.
A9 mix it up! Low tech with hi tech and plenty of hands on!
The first thing I do when I hear "State Testing" is throw up.
we need to give Ss the objective and then guide them as they take it and manipulate it to construct their own learning.
Depends on sit. If we have to get creative to supply schools with paper & pencils, it's a problem
A9: My behavior changes and the Ss automatically follow suit. There's nothing special that I do differently
A9: ...by teaching an elective ;)
A9: it is also almost Spring though! Try to bring lots of outdoor activities and labs, even for just a change of scenery
Great reseource for Ss to learn virtually, just got the & it rocks!
A10: Start small. Always start small.
A9: Stop that “skill and drill” review mess. Just keep on keeping on Trust the Ss to keep learning. Make reviewing fun. mathopoly
KEEP LEARNING:
Join next week when hosts
Be sure to FOLLOW others in tonight and GROW your PLN in the process.
A9 - 2 minutes in the 1st quarter is the same as the final 2 minutes of the game. Train them to perform at crunch time.
Q9: During the testing season I try to teach some lighter lessons that are high interest to give them a break.
A10: There will be trial and error and do not be discouraged.
I wish! So often we saturate ourselves and our Ss b/c the schedule is so full of ....
Discovery! I’m looking into a 360 camera to make my own. I travel a lot
A10: I'm not sure what I would say. It's just not an easy job. Survival is key in year one.
